Day: November 27, 2024

At Manchester Proud, we believe that excellent public schools form the cornerstone of a thriving community. However, we also recognize that for students to excel, their basic needs must be met. With this guiding principle, Manchester Proud, in collaboration with the Manchester School District, local businesses, and community organizations, is thrilled to announce a new initiative to address basic needs within our schools: a district-wide food pantry system.

This initial focus aims to ensure that no student or family in our community goes without access to nutritious meals. By addressing food insecurity, we can help students focus on their education and well-being, laying a stronger foundation for academic success. 

In 2023, the Manchester Health Department launched its ARPA-funded Healthy Food Access Plan, identifying 23 strategies to improve Manchester residents’ access to healthy and culturally-preferred foods.  One strategy was to increase the number of food pantries in the City by supporting community partners, like the Manchester School District, in establishing their own pantries.  Seven MSD schools received ARPA funding through the Health Department to buy refrigeration equipment, shelving, and other materials needed to create or expand pantries to distribute healthy foods for their students and families in need. The District had the infrastructures at several schools for a food pantry without the food to fill it. 

We are deeply grateful to our founding partners for their initial support in launching this vital project. Organizations such as The Norwin and Elizabeth Bean Foundation, Sam’s Club, Member’s First Credit Union, Orange Theory, Hannaford Supermarkets, and Fidelity Investments have shown immense generosity and commitment to the Manchester community. Their contributions have laid the groundwork for this initiative’s success.

As we move ONWARD into the new year, our focus will be on strengthening relationships and expanding this initiative. We invite local businesses, nonprofits, and community members to join us in this effort. Whether through donations, volunteer efforts, or spreading the word, your support can make a meaningful difference in the lives of Manchester families.

Together, we can ensure that every student in Manchester has the resources they need to thrive. If your business or organization is interested in being part of this impactful project, we would love to hear from you. Let’s work together to build a stronger, more supportive community for all.

For more information or to get involved, please contact Aimee Kereage, Director of Community Partnerships & Engagement at aimeek@manchesterproud.org. 

Thank you for your continued support in making Manchester a place where every child can succeed. ONWARD!

On a rainy day in Manchester, New Hampshire, community members gathered at 160 Lake Avenue to celebrate the unveiling of “Center City Love,” the city’s first public mural. Despite the weather, the ribbon-cutting event was filled with joy and pride, as the vibrant artwork was revealed to symbolize the strength, diversity, and solidarity of the Center City community.

The mural, created through a collective effort, honors Manchester’s immigrant communities, the resilience of its residents, and the pivotal role public schools play in shaping future leaders. At the heart of the artwork is a striking depiction of two people exchanging “DAP” — a gesture symbolizing love, solidarity, dignity, and pride.

The project would not have been possible without the support of the City of Manchester, Mayor Ruais, the Manchester Arts Commission, the New Hampshire Center for Justice & Equity, and many local businesses and community members. Special thanks were given to Jason Bonilla, Zach Palmer, Colon Tire & Alignment, Sandra Almonte, the Central High School Student Leadership Council, and the Positive Street Art team for their significant contributions.

Two Manchester School District representatives, Erika Berberi and Fatuma Muhidin, are prominently featured in the mural. Central High School senior Fatuma Muhidin expressed her pride in sharing her heritage through this public art piece, saying, “All the kids in Manchester are seeing this mural, and I just want to say I’m so happy to share my culture with the city.”

Erika Berberi shared her gratitude for being part of such a meaningful project: “I’m very honored that I was able to be a part of something so creative and meaningful. It’s not every day you get to see yourself as part of a mural.”

“Center City Love” is more than just a work of art; it’s a testament to the power of community, representation, and resilience. It stands as a vibrant reminder of Manchester’s commitment to inclusivity and the strength found in unity.

Thank you to everyone who braved the rain to celebrate this milestone and to the many hands and hearts that made this vision a reality. Together, Manchester continues to shine.

Josselyn Ascenio, a senior at Manchester School of Technology, delivered a heartfelt speech at Granite United Way’s celebration of Patrick Tufts, who will be stepping down as President and CEO this December. Tufts, whose leadership has spanned over two decades, was honored by supporters, community partners, friends, and family for his extraordinary contributions to New Hampshire’s largest United Way.

Josselyn, who plans to pursue a degree in Architecture after graduating high school, shared how Granite United Way’s initiatives have shaped her life. As a graduate of Gossler Park Elementary School’s Leader in Me program—brought to her school through Granite United Way’s efforts—she credited the program with helping her develop critical leadership and mindset skills.

“Everyone should learn the 7 Habits and use them in their own lives because it can enrich and improve their mindsets!” Josselyn said. “Granite United Way helped put this program at the elementary school I attended, and because of them, I now have it in my life.”

Tufts’ vision, dedication, and collaborative spirit have left an enduring legacy. The celebration served as a fitting tribute to his achievements and the countless individuals, like Josselyn, who have been positively impacted by Granite United Way’s work.